Latest British Citizenship Eligibility Criteria Changes via Skill Shortage jobs Pathway (June 2025 Onwards)
Are you planning to move to the UK, find a job through the Skilled Worker visa route, and settle down permanently? In 2025, the UK government has rolled out major changes to its immigration policies—especially affecting the path to permanent residency and British citizenship.
This blog post is your complete, step-by-step guide to understanding the new rules and preparing for a successful move to the UK under the skill shortage category.
Overview of What’s Changed in 2025
The UK’s new immigration framework focuses on raising the bar for foreign nationals hoping to live, work, and eventually settle in the country. The government now demands higher salaries, stronger qualifications, longer residence periods, and more from skilled workers.
So, if you’re planning to use the Skill Shortage Occupation List to enter the UK and later become a British citizen—here’s the new roadmap.
Step 1: Understand the New Path to British Citizenship
10-Year Residency Rule for Settlement – Previously, Skilled Worker visa holders were eligible to apply for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) after 5 years of legal residence. In 2025, this waiting period has been doubled:
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- You must now live and work in the UK for 10 years continuously to qualify for ILR.
- Only after 1 additional year of holding ILR, you can apply for British citizenship.
Total waiting time: 11 years for most skilled workers.
Exception: Spouses of British citizens may still qualify for ILR after 5 years.
Step 2: Meet Stricter Job Eligibility and Salary Criteria
If you’re applying for a job in the UK under the Skilled Worker visa, here’s what changed:
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- Minimum qualification level has increased from RQF Level 3 (A-level) to RQF Level 6 (Bachelor’s degree).
- Most technical and healthcare roles now require a university degree or equivalent experience.
New Salary Thresholds
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- The general minimum salary required is now £38,700 per year (up from £26,200).
- Some high-demand roles (e.g., Software Engineers) must offer a minimum of £51,000 to qualify.
Good news: If you were already in the UK on a Skilled Worker visa before April 4, 2024, you’re exempt from the new thresholds when extending or switching employers.
Step 3: Avoid Restricted Occupations
Some job sectors that were once accessible under the Skilled Worker route are now closed to new applicants from overseas.
❌ Social Care Roles Are Now Restricted
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- You cannot apply for a Skilled Worker visa for social care jobs from outside the UK.
- Only those already in the UK in this occupation before March 11, 2024 may continue working or switch employers within the same code.
Step 4: Explore the Temporary Shortage Occupation List
The UK replaced the old Immigration Salary List with a new Temporary Shortage Occupation List in 2025.
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- It includes only select roles with evidence of urgent labour shortages.
- These roles may be below RQF Level 6, but only for limited timeframes and with tight restrictions.
Step 5: Comply with Higher English Language Standards
You’ll now need a B2-level English proficiency (upper-intermediate), instead of the previous B1 level.
Applies to:
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- Main applicants
- Dependent spouses and children (where applicable)
Accepted proof includes IELTS, TOEFL iBT, or an academic degree taught in English.
Step 6: Prepare for Higher Visa Costs – Immigration Health Surcharge
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- Now set at £1,035 per person per year
- Children under 18 pay a reduced rate of £776 per year
A family of 3 staying 3 years could pay more than £9,000 in IHS fees alone. Additional costs include:
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- Skilled Worker visa application fees (ranging from £610 to £1,400 depending on job type and duration)
- Biometric residence permit fees
- English language tests
- Document translation and notarization (if applicable).
Moving With Your Family? Here’s What’s New
Yes, you can still bring your partner and children to the UK under the Skilled Worker visa. However, note:
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- They must also pay the full IHS fee
- Dependent partners must meet the B2 English requirement
- Children may access free state education, but higher visa costs apply
Where to Find Skill Shortage Jobs in 2025?
Despite tougher rules, many UK employers still need international talent. Check out these trusted platforms:
Final Thoughts: Is It Still Worth Moving to the UK?
Yes—but only if you plan long-term and have the right qualifications and salary expectations. The new rules are not designed to block migration, but to prioritize highly skilled individuals with the ability to contribute strongly to the UK economy.
Here’s a clear table comparing strong candidates vs risky applicants for UK immigration in 2025 via skill shortage jobs:
| Category | Candidate Type | Description |
|---|---|---|
| ✅ Strong Candidates | University-qualified professionals | Applicants with bachelor’s or higher degrees meeting RQF Level 6 requirements. |
| Workers in tech, engineering, construction, finance, and healthcare | Individuals in high-demand fields listed on the Skill Shortage Occupation List. | |
| English-proficient individuals with solid job offers | Those who meet the B2 English level and already have a confirmed UK job offer. | |
| ❌ Risky Route | Underqualified workers | Individuals lacking formal qualifications or failing to meet skill thresholds. |
| Low-wage or restricted job applicants | Applying for roles below salary thresholds or in sectors now closed (e.g., care work). | |
| Those seeking short-term work or quick naturalization | Candidates not prepared for the new 10–11 year path to permanent settlement. |
Your Next Steps Would Be
- Check if your job is on the shortage list (https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/skilled-worker-visa-eligible-occupations/skilled-worker-visa-eligible-occupations-and-codes)
- Secure a job offer before applying
- Prepare your documents, proof of English, and savings
- Secure a job, get UK work visa, and move there.
- Stay there, and become eligible for UK citizenship as per these requirements https://www.gov.uk/british-citizenship.
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